What term describes a molecule that attracts oil?

The term that describes a molecule that attracts oil is "lipophilic." This characteristic refers to the ability of a substance to dissolve in or mix with fats and oils. Lipophilic molecules have a strong affinity for lipids, which makes them effective in formulations that require the incorporation of oils. This property is particularly important in cosmetics and various hair products, where oil absorption and the interaction with natural oils can enhance the product's effectiveness.

Understanding lipophilicity is essential for cosmetologists, as it affects how products perform on the hair or skin. For example, certain oils used in hair treatments are selected for their lipophilic properties, ensuring they can penetrate and nourish the hair more effectively.

In this context, other terms such as hydrophilic (which relates to water attraction) and hydrophobic (which refers to water-repelling qualities) highlight different interactions with liquids. Oxophilic, while it may imply a connection to oxygen, is not typically used to describe interactions with oils, making lipophilic the most accurate choice for the term that describes a molecule that attracts oil.